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Anika Washburn '18 reflects on how Brookfield Academy shaped her character through lived experiences rooted in accountability, trust, and resilience. From athletics to performing arts, BA taught her to embrace discomfort, contribute in any role, and lead with authenticity rather than ego. These lessons carried through college, where she balanced rigorous academics and championship-level soccer, and into her professional life as a software engineer at Microsoft in Seattle. Whether leading teams, pursuing mountaineering, or committing to everyday disciplines, she credits BA with instilling a foundation of character that continues to guide her work, leadership, and growth.
Read the full article here.
~ Anika Washburn
Brookfield Academy Class of 2018
Case Western Reserve University Class of 2022
Top 30 honoree for the 2023 NCAA Woman of the Year Award
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BE ON THE LOOKOUT!
The Winter 2026 issue of Knights Notes is officially on its way to your mailbox. This edition features FIVE whole pages dedicated entirely to alumni, because, honestly, you’ve earned it. Our alums are doing incredible things all over the globe, and we couldn’t be prouder of your accomplishments.
If Knights Notes, Annual Report, or other mailings haven’t been showing up lately, there are two likely explanations:
- Your parents are getting all your mail (and probably reading it first), or
- We don’t have your most up-to-date address.
Don’t miss out on mailings, alumni news, or chances to reconnect at alumni gatherings. Make sure we have your current contact information so your mail finds you,
not your childhood bedroom.
| Planes, Trains, and Automobiles | | |
What started as a simple reunion turned into Planes, Trains, and Automobiles: alumni edition. Our Wisconsin crew battled travel delays worthy of a movie montage, while the Seattle group patiently held down the fort. When Wisconsin finally arrived (just in time!), the reunion was in full swing, complete with plenty of laughs, enthusiastic belting of the BA Fight Song, and lots of love for BA.
And, in a classic “small world” moment, two Seattle alums discovered they were both BA graduates thanks to a pair of Elm Grove Soccer Club shorts spotted at pickleball league. Proof that BA connections travel well, no matter the distance.
SEE YOU NEXT YEAR!
Satellite Alumni Gathering
New York City
Friday, January 30, 2027
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RACQUEL RACADIO '97
After a nearly seven-year journey, Racquel graduated with her Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) degree from the University of North Carolina Gillings School of Public Health in May 2024. Proud to be a 1st generation American, a woman of color in STEM, and of Filipino ancestry, Racquel added a stole to her regalia, handmade by Philippine artisans with embroidery that is deeply symbolic of both her ancestry and commitment to community.
She currently leads Patient Advocacy Relations for Amgen's Inflammation and Bone portfolio. Throughout her 15+ years in the life sciences, public health, clinical research, health equity, and medical affairs, including the past 7+ years at Amgen, Racquel has had the privilege of witnessing the transformative impact that collaboration between industry and patient communities can achieve. Congratulations, Racquel!
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CATHERINE RANEY '99 NORMAN
Utah Business named Catherine one of Utah’s 2026 Business Leaders of the Year. As VP of Development and Athlete Relations with Utah 2034, Catherine has fostered a strong sense of community within Utah’s business sector to support the 2034 Winter Games. She also helped create a strategic partnership between the Podium34 initiative and the 2034 Winter Games. Through her leadership, Podium34 is paving the way for a lasting economic and social impact. Read the full article here.
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DAVID GRAMLING '14 and
TY CARPENTER '14
In early January, our boys varsity basketball team took on Milwaukee Academy of Science in a hard-fought matchup. While the final score didn't fall our way (56-68), it was great to welcome back familiar faces. MAS Assistant Coach David Gramling returned to campus, and fellow alumnus Ty Carpenter came out to support his classmate. Pictured here is our one and only Dr. Larry Pesch, who insists he was once as tall as both David and Ty. Once a Blue Knight, always a Blue Knight!
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UNDERHILL BROS.
Two alumni. Two brothers. One weekend. National recognition coast to coast.
What an extraordinary moment for Brookfield Academy alumni Matthew Underhill '22 and Nathan Underhill '25, who earned national honors in collegiate gymnastics on the same weekend.
Matthew, a senior at Penn State University, was named Big Ten Men’s Gymnast of the Week, reflecting years of consistency, leadership, and elite performance.
Nathan, a freshman at UC Berkeley, was recognized by the College Gymnastics Association as Rookie of the Week, marking an exceptional start to his collegiate career.
Congratulations, Underhill brothers!
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MRS. KARYL HAHN
We are saddened to share that one of Brookfield Academy’s very first teachers, Mrs. Karyl Hahn, passed away peacefully on February 10. Many in our community will remember her fondly from her French classes and the timeless influence she had on generations of students.
Karyl held Brookfield Academy and its community very close to her heart and wanted BA to be informed, as it was such an important part of her life. The funeral will be held at Lyndahl Funeral Home in Green Bay. The family is currently making arrangements for the time and date of the funeral service. Any questions can be directed to the Advancement Office. Au revoir, Madame Hahn.
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MS. CAROL GALLEPP
We share the news of the passing of former Lower School teacher, Ms. Carol Gallepp, who served our school community for many years. During her time at Brookfield Academy, she made a lasting impact on generations of students and was a valued member of our faculty community.
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ALUMNI COMMITTEE
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
6 pm
The first Alumni Committee meeting is scheduled for 6 pm on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, in the Founders Hall Washington Room, with a Zoom option available.
Alumni Committee gatherings will offer an opportunity to connect with school leadership, share ideas, provide feedback, and help advance projects that support BA and its Mission. Alumni voices are especially valuable.
Please click here and let us know if you are interested in being part of this group.
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MENTOR A CURRENT STUDENT
Would you be willing to have a BA student shadow you at work? A few very motivated BA Upper School students started a new club focused on connecting BA students with professionals in the Milwaukee area who are willing to share insights about their careers. They are hoping to help students find shadowing opportunities in various fields.
As BA alumni, you provide a unique resource that can offer a wealth of valuable information for these eager students. Would you be willing to lend your expertise and guidance in supporting these students?
Reach out to the Alumni Office if you are interested.
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Friday, March 13, 2026
FIVE STAR SEMINAR
Patriots Hall (Upper School)
Last spring, the campus buzzed with excitement as alumni returned to share their stories with Upper School students. The impact of the Five Stars has clearly resonated with our alumni even after graduation.
The conversations were so inspiring that we’ve decided to do it again! Alumni will reflect on how their time at Brookfield Academy has shaped their lives and career journeys, demonstrating that the experiences gained on campus continue long after graduation.
We’re thrilled to welcome back alumni speakers, including:
Mark Bechthold '18
Darryl Covington '98
Rajiv Kodali '16
Katie Kohls '07
Stefan Romero '15
Mark Steliga '93
Jeremiah Van Hecke '92
Mona Krieger '88 Zignego
If you are in the area on March 13, you are welcome to visit campus and see them anytime between 8:30 am-1:00 pm.
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Saturday, May 16, 2026
GRADUATION
Fields of Freedom
3215 N. Brookfield Rd.
Class of 1976, please email Linda Pryor and let her know you are coming, so we can recognize you for your 50th!
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Saturday, June 27, 2026
ALUMNI REUNION COOKOUT
Fields of Freedom
We look forward to a summer cookout celebrating all alumni and their families on Saturday, June 27, 2026. More details will be shared in the coming months. We can’t wait to see you in the summer!
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Friday, December 23, 2026
ANNUAL ALUMNI CHRISTMAS PARTY
Location TBD
We want to hear from you! Please click the button below and provide us with feedback on the party location.
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Friday, January 30, 2027
SATELLITE ALUMNI GATHERING
New York City, NY
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